How to Raise Twins on a Budget
Having twins means twice the blessings -- but try telling that to your bank account. After all, the cost of having a child doubles when you're having a set of two. While you'll score double the love, you'll also need double the diapers, clothes and money for various activities. Thought it may be difficult, with some planning and forethought, you can raise twins without breaking the bank.
Instructions
Consider low-cost options for feeding and diapering your twins. Of course, breastfeeding is the cheapest option, but if you can't breastfeed, check with your state's Women, Infants and Children Service to see if you qualify for help to cover the cost of formula. You could also trade disposable diapers for cloth diapers to save money -- there's a higher start-up cost, but lower cost of maintenance. If you choose disposable, purchase them from discount or club stores, suggests a guide created by Twins Magazine. Ask friends and family for hand-me-down clothing. While it's fine to purchase a few cute matching outfits for your twins, you'll save more by shopping secondhand or using what your friends and family pass along. You can also acquire hand-me-down baby equipment, toddler safety gear and even sports gear when your twins are older. Purchase only one of various pieces of baby equipment rather than two. While two swings may seem convenient, they're expensive and take up a lot of space. Instead, consider buying one swing and one bouncy chair and switch your twins from one to the other. Ask for sibling or multiples discounts whenever possible, suggests BabyZone. Several child and baby stores will offer discounts if you purchase two of the same item for a set of multiples and discounts for daycare and child activities are often given if you register two children at the same time. Always ask about multiples discounts before you register or buy and you may be surprised at how frequently you score a deal. Bring your twins to various free activities to compensate for a stretched budget, suggests the book "Twin Sense: A Sanity-Saving Guide to Raising Twins -- From Pregnancy Through the First Year." While you may not have the money for that pricey music class, music time at the local library offers the same entertainment. Going to the park, taking a walk around a lake and finding free museums in your area can also help you save money while still keeping your twins engaged. Previous:How to Shop for Triplets Next:Transporting Two Babies From the Car to the Stroller to the Day Care
